TikTok has partnered with the 28th South African Music Awards (SAMA28), to introduce the inaugural public-voted “TikTok Viral Song of the Year” category. This award recognises and celebrates local songs and artists that have dominated the entertainment platform in South Africa in the past year.
A number of the most popular songs of the past year made their debut on the entertainment platform before shooting to the top of the music charts globally – earning the platform its well-deserved spot in the music industry.
The TikTok Viral Song of the Year nominations can be voted for exclusively on TikTok from Thursday, 11 August at midday until 24 August; and the winner will be announced at the live SAMA event taking place on 28 August 2022 in Sun City, North West.
Yuvir Pillay, TikTok’s Music Operations Lead for SSA, says: “Music is a special part of TikTok’s creative DNA, and we have seen that songs going viral on the platform generally do well on streaming services as well. This plays an important role in the recognition of songs and artists, and influences other areas such as nominations, chart rankings and sales. We are honoured to have joined forces with an event like the SAMAs that boast the finest local music talent and contributes to the growth of the music industry.”
Echoing his sentiments is Nhlanhla Sibisi RiSA CEO, who adds: “over the past few years, platforms like TikTok have transformed, influenced and advanced the music business. As we continue to witness this evolution, we wish to celebrate talents and songs that have gained popularity in this manner and encourage the public to vote for the favourites as soon as they can.”
While the platform is an endless hub of viral tracks, we’re shining the light on the songs nominated in this new category:
1. 9umba & TOSS & Mdoovar – uMlando
2. Dj Karri – Trigger
3. Daliwonga – Abo Mvelo (feat. Mellow & Sleazy & M.J)
4. Thozi – Sisonke (feat. Khanyisa, Sphokuhle & Pd Jokes)
5. Ch’cco & Mellow & Sleazy – Nkao Tempela
6. Major League Djz & Nvcho & Mathandos – Bakwa Lah
7. Nomfundo Moh – Phakade Lami
8. Dj Maphorisa & Tyler ICU – Banyana
9. Young Stunna – Adiwele (feat. Kabza De Small & Dj Maphorisa)
10. Costa Titch – Big Flexa
To vote, simply:
1. Download the TikTok app via your app store.
2. Login/create a TikTok account.
3. Select the search icon on the top right corner and tap the SAMA28 banner.
4. Select your favourite song.
5. Press vote.
